For an extra touch of personalisation, you may choose to hire a celebrant for your big day. A wedding celebrant is a professional who will officiate your wedding by getting to know you to ensure your ceremony is customised and deeply personal to you and your spouse-to-be. Many couples choose to hire a celebrant for multi-faith weddings or if they don’t have any religious beliefs at all.
If you’re excited to hire a celebrant so your wedding ceremony is unique to you, but you’re not sure your budget can stretch that far, there are ways you can hire a celebrant for less.
In this post, we’re going to explore how you can save money on a wedding celebrant and still have a fabulous and highly personalised wedding ceremony.
Your celebrant may seem only to officiate your wedding, which at the most might take 45 minutes to an hour on the day itself. But there’s so much more to the service a celebrant provides.
To achieve the level of personalisation that comes with hiring a celebrant, many hours of preparation are needed. This includes meeting with you to discuss what you’re looking for. During this time they’ll also ask you questions about your relationship with your partner and your history together. This then enables them to write a carefully written script for your big day.
On top of this, a reputable celebrant will have years of training and experience behind them. That way, you can be confident that they’ll be able to officiate your wedding and meet exactly what you’re looking for.
It’s important to remember that a celebrant and a registrar aren’t the same. A celebrant can’t legally marry you, whereas a registrar can. So, if you’re looking to hire a celebrant, you’ll also need to bear in mind the costs involved with booking a registrar to make sure everything’s legal – and this will set you back around £300.
Whether or not you hire a celebrant for your wedding is entirely up to you, your tastes and your budget. If you’re not interested in a religious or spiritual wedding, or you and your partner have different beliefs, a celebrant is a wonderful way for someone to officiate your wedding.
Or, you may simply want a professional celebrant to ensure you have a ceremony that’s completely unlike any wedding you and your guests have ever been to.
If you want to hire a celebrant to officiate your wedding, but you’re on a strict budget, there are ways you can pay less. Below are 10 ways you can save money on a wedding celebrant. For even more ways to cut costs, you can also read our ultimate guide on how to save money on your wedding.
When searching for a celebrant, make sure you meet with several so you can get a full understanding of what’s available. You might gel with the first celebrant you speak to, but meeting with a few will help you choose one that ticks all your boxes. Plus, getting a range of quotes will make it easier to find one that’s more in keeping with your budget.
Before gathering quotes, make sure you and your spouse-to-be sit down and discuss what you want to get out of hiring a celebrant. Do you want them to be funny? Mention religion? Do you want readings, or poetry, or references to your cultures and backgrounds? If you go into a meeting with a celebrant with a list of what you’re looking for, you’ll be in a better position to know whether that celebrant can provide it, which could save you money in the long run.
Ask family and friends for recommendations for any celebrants they may have hired or met at a wedding in the past. Referrals are a great way of securing a discount. Here at Bridebook, we work with a huge range of celebrants, with many offering discounts that are exclusive to us!
Wedding celebrants are in high demand, which means that during peak times they’ll often have higher rates. To keep costs down (as well as costs related to your entire wedding) consider getting married during off-peak dates.
Celebrants can be booked months, if not years, in advance, so to avoid disappointment you should book early. Plus, the later you leave it, the more you may end up paying. We’d recommend booking your celebrant as soon as you can to secure the best possible rate.
As we’ve already mentioned, you’ll meet with your celebrant – possibly two or even three times – to discuss your wedding so they can get to know you and craft your personalised ceremony. This means there are travel costs, as well as additional costs for their time.
Why not ask your celebrant if they’ll consider meeting with you virtually instead? Platforms like Zoom and Google Meet are great for chatting, so you can still build a rapport with your celebrant while avoiding time-consuming journeys.
One of the easiest ways to secure a discount is simply by asking. Many celebrants will advertise their rates and the cost for certain packages, but these amounts aren’t necessarily set in stone. Don’t expect a huge discount, but when you’re paying hundreds, a 5% or 10% discount can still make a difference.
Because celebrants only officiate your wedding, you also need a qualified registrar for your marriage to be legally binding. For that reason, you could ask a close family member or friend to officiate your wedding instead. Not only will this add yet another level of personalisation to your wedding, but it’ll also mean you don’t have to pay for their services (aside from perhaps a well-earned drink or two).
Asking a friend or loved one to officiate a wedding is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. It’s a great option for couples who want that personal touch without breaking the bank. Just make sure your friend of family member can deal with that kind of pressure on such an important occasion. Also recognise that the quality and level of service is unlikely to match that of a professional celebrant.
Why not consider hiring a wedding celebrant who doesn’t have as much experience as others? Generally, the more experience a celebrant has, the more they’re likely to charge. So, if you choose a celebrant who’s recently qualified and hasn’t officiated many weddings, they’re far more likely to offer competitive rates.
If you can look past their inexperience, you’ll still more than likely have a wonderful wedding thanks to their passion and eagerness to impress.
Planning a wedding is a long, time-consuming and expensive process. It requires hours of research, travelling to meet vendors to discuss requirements, and sometimes tricky negotiations. It’s a fun and exciting process, but it can also be difficult and stressful. That’s why many couples decide to relieve themselves of the pressure and enlist the guidance and expertise of a wedding planner.
While that’s a huge amount to pay for something that you could in theory do yourself, there are plenty of reasons why a wedding planner is a must-have for many brides- and grooms-to-be. So, if this is you, how can you save money on a wedding planner so they fit within your budget?
In this post, we’re going to explore the many ways you can save money and make the most of the skills and experience provided by a wedding planner.
With many couples paying thousands for the services of a wedding planner, you might wonder why they’re able to charge so much. Below are just some of the reasons why a wedding planner can be so expensive:
Time – If you’ve already started planning your wedding, you’ll be all too familiar with how much time it takes. A professional wedding planner pours hours and hours of their time into planning a wedding that is perfect for you.
Experience – Wedding planners who have been in the game a long time will have plenty of experience, so will know what to do, where to go and what to say.
Expertise – Along with their experience, a wedding planner will have a ton of expertise, which means nothing you throw at them will be too much.
Connections – If they’ve been in the business a while, a wedding planner will have a whole host of connections to help them get preferential deals.
Personalisation – A planner will work closely with you to make sure they know exactly what you want every step of the way. They’ll also make sure you know what’s happening and when, so you’re involved in every decision.
On top of these, wedding planners also have overheads that need to be covered, including insurance, admin costs, office space, staff costs, technology costs and more.
There are three main reasons why couples choose to hire a wedding planner, and why the seemingly lofty cost is totally worth it to them:
They don’t have the time to plan their wedding themselves
They don’t have the necessary knowledge and expertise
They want to save money
We’ve already explained how wedding planners use their time, knowledge and expertise to plan a wedding that is personal to you and in keeping with your tastes and style. However, it’s also important to highlight that hiring a wedding planner will save you money. According to qualified wedding planner and wedding expert, Hamish Shephard, you could save as much as 20% of what you might otherwise have paid. That means, while you may use 10% of your budget on a wedding planner, you’re likely to save this and more in the long run.
The cost-saving benefits of hiring a wedding planner are obvious, but if you’re on a budget it might be hard to justify spending so much on a service you could do yourself. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to save money on a wedding planner, so you can pay less but still make the most of their expertise. Check out the 10 tips below and read our complete guide on how to save money on your wedding.
A wedding planner provides the most effective service if you hire them before you start planning your big day. So, if you plan on recruiting a planner, don’t jump the gun and book a venue first – in doing so you might have lost out on a discount or deal that means you’re paying more than you need to.
2. Don’t hire the first wedding planner you speak to
Though hiring your wedding planner early is important, make sure you don’t jump in too quickly. Take the time to speak to several wedding planners and weigh up your options. Some may charge you a percentage of your budget; others may ask for a flat fee; and others may charge an hourly rate. Put together a list of planners, their quotes and the service they provide so you can make an informed choice.
A full wedding planning service will be the most expensive option – and that’s because it’s the most thorough and time-consuming. But, most wedding planners will also offer a partial planning service. A partial service helps you with planning specific aspects of your wedding, such as the venue and catering. That way, you can get help with some of the more challenging and expensive parts of the planning process, then do the rest – like the flowers, decor and transport – yourself.
Or, as your big day gets ever closer and the list of jobs keeps mounting up, you could hire a planner for a partial service to help you keep on top of things. Speak to potential planners to find out what they can do for you as part of a partial planning service.
4. Ask friends for recommendations…or hire a friend
Ask your married friends and family for recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals are a great way to secure a discount and find a planner who’s reliable and brilliant at their job. Even a discount of just 5% or 10% is a huge saving when you’re dealing with expensive rates.
Another great option is to hire a friend to help you plan certain aspects. Sometimes, your friends can be just as excited about your wedding as you are, and involving them in the planning process is a great way to include them. Just try not to task them with all the more difficult or time-consuming jobs, and make sure you thank them with a voucher or bunch of flowers on the big day itself.
Don’t be shy about asking a wedding planner for a discount. Once you’ve met with a planner and discussed what you’re looking for, if they like you and are excited about your vision, they may be happy to discuss lowering their rates. After all, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.
While your wedding planner can take care of the difficult parts, you can make a start on other parts of wedding prep and save money in doing so. For example, you could get ahead on designing your wedding invitations or crafting paper flowers for table decorations.
While you’re hiring your wedding planner to fulfil your and your spouse-to-be’s vision for your big day, it’s important to be flexible, because flexibility is a great way to save money. For example, your planner will know that a midweek wedding is far more affordable than a weekend wedding, so being open to their suggestions will probably save you a ton of money.
The more experienced, skilled, knowledgeable and reputable a wedding planner is, the more in demand they’ll be and the more they’ll be able to charge.
That means, if you hire a wedding planner with less experience, their rates will be more competitive and more likely to be in line with your budget. The only risk is that they might not have the same expertise or connections as others who have been in the industry for longer.
If you go down this route, look out for relevant qualifications like an event planning or hospitality diploma. Though they’re not a legal requirement when it comes to wedding planning, they’ll give you more confidence that your planner knows what they’re doing, even if they have less experience.
When you hire a wedding planner, you’ll spend a lot of time with them as they get to know you and what you want to be included in your big day. Many wedding planners will want to do this in person, but this can take time, especially if there’s travel involved.
To save on travel time and costs, ask your planner if they’re happy to connect virtually instead. Using Zoom or Google Meet is a quick and convenient way to meet and still build a rapport.
To get the most out of your wedding planner, and therefore the best value for money, the most important thing you can do is trust them. Your wedding planner will have planned dozens – if not hundreds – of weddings and will know the industry through and through. The last thing you want to do is have a strained relationship with them, so trust the process and let them do what they do best. This will enable them to do a fabulous job and save you plenty of money.
Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook
Here at Bridebook, we have a host of fantastic wedding planners who will help you plan your wedding on a budget. You can also plan your entire wedding for free right here on Bridebook. We’ve got all the tools you need to organise your big day without breaking the bank, from our checklist to budget calculator to guest list. Sign up now and start your wedding planning journey today!
If you’re looking for a wedding that is romantic, intimate and incredibly affordable, then a registry office wedding is a fantastic option. While a registry office wedding doesn’t offer you the scale and grandiosity of other weddings, it makes up for it in simplicity and elegance.
Even though getting married at a registry office is one of the most affordable ways to tie the knot, the costs involved can still mount. The good news is, there are ways you can spend less.
In this post, we’re going to explore the many ways you can save money on a registry office wedding and still have a beautiful day with your closest family and friends.
Is it cheaper to get married at a registry office?
The cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the time, date, package, and even which local council oversees your chosen registry office. And, of course, how much you spend overall will entirely depend on your own preferences, including what you spend on your outfits, transport, rings and whether or not you have an evening reception.
That said, a registry office wedding is by far one of the cheapest options, which makes it a great choice if you’re getting married on a budget.
Can you save even more money on a registry office wedding?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to save even more money when getting married at a registry office, which means you don’t have to pay even close to the UK average. In fact, if you’re particularly thrifty, you could have a registry office wedding for as low as £130 if you’re happy to cut a few corners and forgo some of the pricier aspects of a wedding.
Then again, getting married is a very special event, so you might want to spend a little more than the bare minimum to mark the occasion. Luckily, there are ways to make that happen while still saving some money.
12 ways to save money on a registry office wedding
A registry office wedding is already one of the most budget-friendly ways to get married, but there are ways to make further savings. Below are 12 tips and tricks to help you save money on a registry office wedding. You can also check out our guide on how to save money on your wedding for more information.
If you live a similar distance from more than one registry office, contact each of them to check how much a ceremony costs. This is especially important if they’re in different counties, as this can affect the price. You can find your nearest registry offices on the government’s website. Of course, you’ll have to bear in mind travel times and costs: choosing the cheapest option might not always be the most cost-effective in the long run.
Another point to consider is whether you’ll have the option to have the ceremony in the registry office or a specific ceremony room, which is often slightly larger and can accommodate more guests. These rooms can cost an extra £200 or so, so if you don’t need the space for guests then it might be an unnecessary expense.
As we pointed out earlier, the season, date and time of your wedding will affect the cost. If you choose to get married during peak times, for example during the early afternoon on a Saturday in the summer, then it will be more expensive than if you were to get married on a weekday in the winter. If you can, consider getting married midweek to keep the costs down. This will also help you save costs when it comes to other vendors.
Registry offices are often small and private, which is why they’re perfect for intimate weddings. It might be tempting to invite dozens of people, but if you do that you’ll have no choice other than to pay for a larger space.
Be brave and keep your guestlist to only your closest family and friends. This might upset a few aunts and uncles, but you can invite them to join you afterwards for a nice meal, or to the evening reception if you choose to have one.
A registry office isn’t a grand and elaborately decorated venue, so it can be tempting to want to decorate it so it fits your style and taste. However, this will bump up the cost. Why not embrace simplicity and go for a minimalist style? That way you’ll have more budget to dedicate to other parts of your day.
If you’re keen to add a splash of your personality to your registry office wedding, check out our guide on how to save money on wedding decor.
Because registry office weddings aren’t as big as other weddings, you could save a lot of money by buying off-the-rack outfits. And just because you’re buying off-the-rack doesn’t mean you won’t all look amazing – you simply won’t spend nearly as much money. Plenty of online retailers offer wedding outfits for brides and grooms which are smart, elegant and cost a fraction of the amount of designer or custom-made outfits. The quality and level of service naturally won’t be quite the same, but if keeping costs low is your no. 1 priority, then this is a great affordable option.
You may want bouquets, boutonnières, corsages and floral accents, but if you’re trying to save money, try to keep the number of flower arrangements you have to a minimum. Wedding flowers are justifiably very expensive, so the costs can very quickly add up.
To save money, choose arrangements which include in-season flowers and a lot of green foliage. For something a little more unique (and long-lasting), you could even have paper craft flowers or a dried bouquet.
It probably doesn’t seem right to head straight home after your wedding, does it? Instead, you’ll more than likely want to have a reception so you and your family can celebrate your marriage into the night.
Try to keep things small. One option is to have an intimate meal at a restaurant, then head to a local pub for a few drinks afterwards. If you want to keep things private, choose a pub with function space you can hire for around £500. Just be mindful that during peak times that cost can be much higher. Don’t be tempted to offer your guests free drinks for the night, as this can add hundreds to your cost, depending on how many you invite.
If you’re on a tight budget, and are prioritising cheap and affordable over bespoke and luxury, do things yourself in lieu of enlisting the services of a quality but also costly professional. This includes your invitations, decor and favours, which aren’t the most expensive things you’ll have to pay for but will still bump up the overall cost of your big day.
Do note, however, that aside from the DIY approach not matching the quality of professional wedding services, you will need to factor in the added time and extra responsibility to source all these materials yourself and put everything together. One of the great joys of outsourcing to a professional is peace of mind – the knowledge that you’ll have what you want on your big day exactly when you want it, without having to worry about all the moving parts that go into making gorgeous custom creations.
Even though you’re not planning an extravagant wedding, you’ll probably still want photographs to help you remember it forever. While photographers usually offer set packages, they’re often open to hearing if you have specific requests. So, why not ask them if they’ll shoot your wedding for an hourly rate, instead? That way, they can take pictures at your ceremony but it won’t cost nearly as much as a set package.
There’s nothing to say you have to outright buy everything you use for your wedding day. If there’s something you need but can’t afford brand new, why not ask a close friend or family member if you can borrow it instead? This includes anything from table linen to a veil.
Another option is rental, which is a fantastic alternative to buying something. For example, you can rent a suit for as little as £50 a day, which can be more than a third of the price of buying one. Just be mindful of return policies so you’re not fined for returning it late.
A wedding cake can be another chunky expense – understandably so, as it’s edible art – so keep costs down by choosing a smaller cake with a simple design. One great option is to choose a cake from a supermarket, such as M&S, which offers a range of affordable wedding cakes.
There are plenty of great tips for slicing your cake costs in our post on how to save money on a wedding cake, if you’re willing to compromise a little.
A great way to save money, and give your loved ones a role to play in your special day, is by assigning everyone something to do. This could include:
Transport – Why not ask someone you know to be your chauffeur for the day to help you get to and from the registry office?
Music – We all know someone who has a huge music collection or is skilled in the guitar, so consider having them play or perform at your wedding.
Beauty – You could ask a talented friend, or one of your bridesmaids, to do your hair and makeup before the ceremony (though this isn’t without its risks – read our post on demystifying bridal beauty costs to learn more)
Videography – Most people have a smartphone, so you could ask someone you trust to record the ceremony for you (again this isn’t without its drawbacks, and is unlikely to match a professionally-shot and edited film)
Once you and your partner are married, your wedding rings will likely become your most consistently worn pieces of jewellery. Because of this – and what they symbolise – couples tend to spend quite a bit of money on finding exactly the right wedding rings.
But, there are things you can do to bring this cost down while making sure you have the perfect pair of wedding rings. Because, of course, you don’t want to compromise when it comes to choosing such an important piece of jewellery – one you’ll each keep for the rest of your lives.
In this post, we’ll explore the many ways you can save money and still have wedding rings that you and your spouse-to-be can wear proudly every day.
Because you’ll wear your wedding ring so often (many rarely take their wedding ring off at all) it has to be incredibly durable. The last thing you want is for your ring to become damaged and misshapen after just a few months of wear. That durability comes at a price, and the more hardy a precious metal is, the more expensive it also tends to be.
For example, two popular choices of metal to use in wedding rings are platinum and gold. Both are more on the more expensive side – with costs starting at around £350 for one ring – but they can easily withstand daily wear and tear. Of course, over time scuffs and scratches will slowly develop, but it will take much longer than if you were to get rings that are made from a much softer and less durable metal.
Some couples will also choose to get wedding rings that are more than a simple band. Customisations, precious stones and engravings all increase the cost, meaning you’ll pay more than you would with a plain wedding band.
Traditionally, wedding rings play a major role in a wedding ceremony, with the exchanging of rings representing a couple’s love and commitment to one another. However, the good news is that there are no requirements that state that rings must be exchanged for you to be legally married. So, if wedding rings aren’t your thing, or they simply don’t fit your budget, then you shouldn’t feel compelled to include them.
Instead, you and your partner could exchange another type of jewellery, flowers or write your own vows. In fact, you don’t need to exchange anything at all for the ceremony to be beautiful and romantic. The best thing about getting married is, it’s your day, so you can dictate exactly how it goes.
One of the questions that couples struggle with is ‘How much should you spend on a wedding ring?’ However, there is no right or wrong answer to this question – only what’s right for you.
If you have a large budget, you may want to spend £1,200 on a pair of platinum wedding bands that are strong and durable. If your budget is tight, you can buy a pair of silver wedding rings for as little as £150. Or, for something a little more middle-of-the-road, you could choose two 9-carat gold rings for around £500.
Ultimately, how much you spend on your wedding rings is down to your preferences and your budget, so try not to pay attention to how much you think you should spend.
If you and your spouse-to-be are excited to exchange rings but not so excited about the cost, there are ways to ensure you don’t have to spend even close to the UK average. Remember, averages are simply that – an average – so that means many couples spend way below that.
Just because you can’t see or try on rings in person, don’t be put off the idea of buying your wedding rings online. No, you won’t be able to get a feel for a ring when browsing a website, but because online jewellers don’t have to pay expensive retail unit costs, they’re in a position to sell wedding rings at a lower cost.
Make sure you get your ring fingers measured properly before placing any order, as getting your rings resized will counteract any savings you might make. Plus, double-check the returns policy of a website before you place an order just in case your rings aren’t quite as beautiful in person as they looked in photographs.
Some jewellers like to tempt excited couples by selling wedding rings with the option of paying monthly. This might seem tempting, but high interest rates could mean you pay way over the odds in the long run. If you can, pay for your wedding rings outright and don’t be suckered into any upsells that they may try to flog you at the checkout.
Some couples like a little extra bling in their wedding rings so it closely matches the engagement ring. There’s nothing wrong with this, of course, but if this is something you’re interested in then be prepared to pay a lot more than the average. Precious stones will seriously bump up how much you pay and aren’t generally the go-to choice when it comes to wedding rings. To keep costs down, forgo the stones, or if you are keen on extra bling, go for something a little less expensive than diamonds.
When it comes to choosing a design for your wedding rings, the world is your oyster. But, to keep costs down, the simpler a design is, the cheaper the rings are likely to be.
When the time comes to start browsing for wedding rings, it can be easy to fall in love with a particular design that leaves you blinkered. Even if you find what you think are the perfect rings, don’t stop looking. Chances are, if you’re patient and you shop around, you’ll find the same rings – or better – at another jeweller that just so happens to offer them at a lower price. Keep your options open and don’t buy your rings without considering all options first.
When it comes to your rings, there are a ton of options available to you. One of the biggest choices you’ll make is which precious metal to go for. Some of the most expensive include platinum, and a plain wedding band could set you back as much as £1,100 for one. At the opposite end of the spectrum, a silver wedding ring will likely cost you around £150 for the pair – however, they won’t be as durable and will likely scuff or become misshapen more easily.
Why not meet in the middle and choose a pair of gold or white gold rings? A pair of 9-carat gold rings could cost you less than £500 and will look great and still be fairly durable.
A popular addition to wedding rings is customisations, such as engraving or etchings. This could be anything from the name of your new spouse to the date of your wedding, or even a quote or phrase that is super meaningful to you. However, customisations like this certainly aren’t free and will add at least a hundred quid to the price tag, but this can vary depending on the number of characters you’d like to include.
If you have your heart set on customised rings, though, many jewellers offer exclusive Bridebook discounts and offers, such as Mrs Bo Jangles, who offers 5% off and free engraving on certain pieces.
Wedding bands can vary in thickness, offering you a large range of choices. However, the thicker the band is, the more metal it needs, and therefore the more it’ll cost. You probably won’t want to go too thin, but avoiding thicker bands will help to keep the costs more manageable.
This isn’t something that you’ll be able to retroactively control, but consider choosing wedding rings that are made from the same metal as your engagement ring. If you have two different metals they’ll wear at different rates, and can even damage each other due to them constantly coming into contact with each other. That means, over the years, you may end up having to have your rings repaired or redipped more often. This isn’t so much a cost you’ll have to worry about right now, but more of a long-term consideration that your future self may thank you for.
Don’t just browse high-street jewellers on your quest to find the perfect rings; there are a plethora of second-hand retailers and antique stores out there that just might have a few hidden treasures. You might not have much luck in charity shops, but vintage and antique retailers will have jewellery cabinets that can be far more budget-friendly than if you were to buy something brand new.
Another option to consider is browsing second-hand sites like Gumtree and eBay. If you can get past the mysterious history of jewellery bought from sites like these, you might just be able to grab yourself a massive bargain.
Not everyone is blessed with natural negotiation skills, but there’s no harm in asking for a discount. Just because a particular piece of jewellery has a price tag beside it in the window, it doesn’t mean that’s definitely what you have to pay. Jewellery store employees often receive a commission on sales, and if they know you’re a serious buyer they should be open to offering you a discount.
If you’re a cash buyer, let them know, as this may help. If you’re lucky, you might be able to wangle as much as 10 – 15% off the asking price for a pair of wedding rings.
Craft fairs can be a fantastic place to pick up unique and bespoke wedding rings that are handmade by talented craftspeople. Not only that, but you might also be able to find yourself a huge bargain. Check out Prima for information on the best upcoming craft shows in 2023.
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The great thing about the groom’s speech is that it’s generally one of the easiest to write. You don’t need to stress about making everyone laugh like the best man or worry about whether your words are heartfelt enough, like the father of the bride. Instead, the groom’s speech is a lovely thank you note to everyone who has helped you plan the wedding.
As the groom, it’s a chance for you to express your love, gratitude, and appreciation to all the amazing people who have gathered to celebrate this joyous occasion. It’s a time to honour your beautiful bride, thank your parents, and embrace the opportunity to let everyone know how grateful you are for their continued support.
In this article, we’ve captured everything you need to know about writing the best groom speech ever. We have 10 brilliant groom speech examples for inspiration, a breakdown of the structure of the speech, and a list of all the little bits and bobs you may need to consider. Let’s get going!
The groom’s speech is a heartfelt speech made by the groom during a wedding reception. It should be no more than 10 minutes long and usually goes second in the order of speeches, coming after the father of the bride speech but before the best man’s speech.
Consider this your opportunity to let your friends and family know how grateful you are for their support. You can also share stories and memories and thank all those who have played a significant role in the journey leading up to the wedding day.
In fact, the groom’s speech is usually positioned as a thank-you note to everyone involved in planning your wedding. For example, your parents, the bride’s parents, ushers, bridesmaids, the best man, the maid of honour, your wedding planner, and the wedding venue staff. It’s also a great opportunity to thank anyone who has supported your relationship thus far and a chance to tell some heartwarming stories about how you and your partner met.
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your groom’s speech:
Thank your family. They’ve guided you through life, helped you become who you are today, and probably contributed to the wedding somehow. It’s time to thank your parents for their support over the years. In addition, you should extend your gratitude to your new in-laws. Let them know how grateful you are to them for raising such a wonderful partner, welcoming you into their family, and for their continued guidance.
The meet-cute. Share some sweet stories and anecdotes about how you met your partner when you knew they were the one, and any adventures you’ve shared along the way. You could also share any laughs you’ve had leading up to the wedding day and maybe sprinkle in a few inside jokes. Just remember, keep it respectful and appropriate for all guests!
Compliment your new spouse. What better day to highlight how beautiful and special your partner bride is than on their big day? It’s time to let everyone know exactly what made you fall in love with them, their impact on your life, and the joy they bring you. Include all these topics and watch their smile light up the room.
A toast. Bottoms up! Finish your speech by encouraging your friends and guests to join you in a toast. Here’s to love and the incredible journey that lies ahead.
Groom’s speech structure
Although the groom’s speech can follow any structure you feel is best, we recommend sticking to the following framework. This way, you can feel confident that you’ve covered all your bases and delivered a well-rounded speech.
Introduction
The introduction sets the tone for your speech, so it’s important to start with confidence. Take this time to welcome and engage your audience, as well as acknowledge everyone’s effort in attending the wedding. Express your gratitude, and let everyone know they look great. Keep it short and move on to the bulk of the speech.
Top tip: To guarantee a big cheer, start with “On behalf of me and my wife…”. It’s a winner every time!
Thank your family
Take a moment to express heartfelt appreciation to your family. Begin with your parents, thanking them for their unconditional love, guidance, and support throughout your life.
Recognise the sacrifices they have made along the way and for any help they have offered in wedding planning.
You can then move on to thanking your new in-laws. Emphasise the love and acceptance they have shown you, how they have supported your relationship, and their role in bringing you and your partner together. And, if appropriate, thank them for their child’s hand in marriage!
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen
Show appreciation for your best man, maid of honour, and the rest of the bridal party. Highlight their support, dedication, and efforts in making your wedding day special. You can also express your gratitude for their friendship, unwavering support, and their role in your special day.
Express your gratitude to the guests
Take a moment to express gratitude to all the guests for their presence and role in your lives. Highlight what their support means to you and the happiness they bring to the occasion.
Take extra time to thank anyone who has travelled long distances or made an extra effort to be there. Let them know how much you appreciate the efforts and how much it means to have them with you.
Thank the staff
Acknowledge the efforts of the staff, vendors, and wedding planners who have worked tirelessly to make your wedding day run smoothly. Show appreciation for their professionalism and attention to detail. After all, the day wouldn’t be possible without them!
Compliment your partner
Finally, express your love and admiration for your new spouse. Share heartfelt compliments that highlight their beauty, grace and the qualities that make them so special to you. Be specific and genuine in your praise. There won’t be a dry eye in the house!
Time for a toast
As you wrap up your speech, it’s time to invite your guests to raise their glasses and join you in a toast. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. Chin chin!
Groom’s speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Use this groom speech template to guide your writing
Although it’s an emotional day, keep the tone of your speech happy and upbeat. Save the tear-jerking stories for the father of the bride or best man speeches. Your speech should be focused on light-hearted gratitude.
Keep it clean!
Although light-hearted humor and anecdotes are appropriate in a groom’s speech, ensure your humor is tasteful and doesn’t overshadow the heartfelt moments! Remember, your new spouse is in front of all their family and friends, so they may not want to share any intimate or embarrassing stories. If you’re unsure whether your partner will be comfortable with the stories you’re sharing, consider running any stories you plan to use past them first.
Confidence is key
A few nerves are to be expected. However, this is your time to shine, and you should do it proudly. Stand tall, speak clearly, and make eye contact with the audience. Project confidence and belief in your words. Remember, the audience is filled with your family and friends who are gathered to have a good time and are all rooting for you!
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 10 examples of great wedding speech ideas, from the simple and sentimental to the light-hearted and humorous. And remember that these are just examples. You can use them as templates for your own speech, but it’s important to speak from the heart, and add your own personal touch and unique family anecdotes.
A lot of traditional father of the bride speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to your daughter’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Speech Example 1: The Heartfelt Appreciation
Introduction: “Ladies and gentlemen, family, and friends, thank you all for being here to celebrate this special day with [partner’s name] and me. Your presence means the world to us, and we are truly grateful for your love and support.”
Thank your family: “I want to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to my parents, [parents’ names]. Thank you for your unwavering love, guidance, and for always believing in me. You have shaped me into the man I am today, and I am forever grateful. And I extend my heartfelt thanks to my incredible new in-laws, [in-laws’ names]. Thank you for welcoming me into your family with open arms and showering us with your love and acceptance. I am truly blessed to have gained such wonderful additions to my life.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “I want to take a moment to thank my incredible best man, [best man’s name], and our wonderful groomsmen. Your friendship and support have been invaluable throughout this journey, and I am lucky to have you by my side. Thank you for standing with me today.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our family and friends, thank you for being here to celebrate our love. Your presence fills our hearts with joy, and we are grateful for the love and support you have shown us. We are honoured to share this special day with all of you.”
Thank the staff: “A special thank you goes out to the amazing staff, vendors, and wedding planners who have worked tirelessly to make this day perfect. Your attention to detail and professionalism have made our wedding day unforgettable. We are incredibly grateful for all that you’ve done.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to the love of my life, [partner’s name]. Words cannot express the depth of my love for you. You are my rock, my best friend, and my partner in all of life’s adventures. Your beauty, both inside and out, continues to amaze me every day. I am the luckiest person in the world to call you my wife.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness for [partner’s name] and me. May our love continue to grow and shine brighter with each passing day. Bottoms up!”
Speech Example 2: The Light-hearted Banter
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I must say, standing here in front of you all, I feel a mix of excitement and nerves. But hey, that’s nothing compared to the excitement of marrying the amazing person standing beside me, [partner’s name]!”
Thank your family: “I want to start by thanking my parents, [parents’ names], for their endless love and support. You have always been there for me, guiding me through life’s ups and downs. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without you. And now I will extend my sincere thanks to my incredible new family, [in-laws’ names]. Your kindness, generosity, and open hearts have made me feel like I’ve always been a part of this beautiful family. I am truly grateful for the love and support you have shown us.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “A big shout-out to my best man, [best man’s name], and our incredible groomsmen. You guys have been with me through thick and thin, and I couldn’t have asked for a better crew. Thank you for all the unforgettable memories and for keeping me sane throughout this wedding planning madness.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our friends and family gathered here today, thank you for being a part of this joyous celebration. Your presence fills our hearts with warmth and happiness. We are truly blessed to have such amazing people in our lives.”
Thank the staff: “Let’s not forget to give a round of applause to the fantastic staff who have worked their socks off to make this day possible. From the venue coordinators to the catering team, your hard work and attention to detail have exceeded our expectations. Thank you for making our dream wedding a reality.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to the woman who has stolen my heart, [partner’s name]. You are a true blessing in my life. Your kindness, intelligence, and sense of humour brighten every moment we spend together. I am so grateful for the love and happiness you bring into my life.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the incredible love and future of [partner’s name] and me. May our journey together be filled with laughter, adventures, and a lifetime of shared happiness. Cheers!”
Speech Example 3: The Emotional Touch
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. Today is a day filled with immense joy and gratitude as I stand here as the luckiest man in the world, ready to embark on a new chapter of my life with the love of my life, [partner’s name].”
Thank your family: “I want to take this moment to express my deepest gratitude to my parents, [parents’ names]. Your love, support, and guidance have shaped me into the person I am today. I am forever grateful for the values you instilled in me and for the love you have shown me throughout my life. And to my incredible new in-laws, [in-laws’ names], I want to express my deepest appreciation for welcoming me into your family. Your love, warmth, and genuine care have made me feel like I’ve found a second home.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “To my best man, [best man’s name], and our incredible groomsmen, thank you for standing by my side on this special day. Your friendship and endless support mean the world to me. I am so grateful for the memories we have shared and for the bond we have formed.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our beloved friends and family gathered here today, thank you for your presence and for celebrating our love. Your love, encouragement, and support have been a constant source of strength and inspiration. We are blessed to have you in our lives.”
Thank the staff: “A special thank you goes to the dedicated staff and vendors who have worked tirelessly to make this day unforgettable. Your professionalism, attention to detail, and hard work have made our wedding dreams come true. We are forever grateful for your contributions.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to the woman who has captured my heart, [partner’s name]. You are my rock, my best friend, and my biggest supporter. Your love and unwavering belief in me have brought immeasurable joy into my life. I am grateful for your beautiful soul, your compassion, and the way you make every day brighter.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the love and happiness of [partner’s name] and me. May our love continue to grow and flourish, and may our journey together be filled with laughter, adventures, and endless love. Bottoms up!”
Speech Example 4: The Humorous Twist
Introduction: “Ladies and gentlemen, family, and friends, thank you for being here today to celebrate this incredible milestone in my life. I must say, I’m feeling a mix of excitement and relief that I managed to tie my tie correctly. It’s a big day for me!”
Thank your family: “I want to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to my parents, [parents’ names]. Thank you for your constant support, for always believing in me even when I doubted myself, and for teaching me the importance of love and commitment. And let’s not forget a special thank you to my fantastic new in-laws, [in-laws’ names]. From the first time we met, your clever banter and quick comebacks kept me on my toes. It’s a true pleasure to be part of a family with such a sharp sense of humor. Thank you for the laughter, the wit, and the warm welcome into your incredible clan.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “A big shout-out to my incredible best man, [best man’s name], and our awesome groomsmen. You guys have been with me through all the highs and all the lows, and I can’t thank you enough for being my sidekicks in life’s adventures. I’m honoured to have you by my side.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our amazing guests, thank you for being here and sharing in the joy of this special day. Your presence makes this celebration even more memorable, and we are truly grateful for the love and support you have shown us.”
Thank the staff: “Let’s also take a moment to appreciate the hardworking staff and vendors who have made this wedding day unforgettable. From the venue team to the caterers, thank you for going above and beyond to make everything run smoothly. You’re the real MVPs!”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to the person who has stolen my heart, my beautiful [partner’s name]. You are my everything. Your love, warmth, and infectious laughter bring so much happiness into my life. I’m grateful for the adventures we’ve shared and the ones that lie ahead.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to the incredible love and future of [partner’s name] and me. May our love be a never-ending source of laughter, support, and growth. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and shared dreams. Cheers!”
Speech Example 5: The Poetic Reflection
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. Today, I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude and love. This is a day that marks the beginning of a beautiful journey, and I’m honoured to share it with all of you.”
Thank your family: “I want to start by thanking my parents, [parents’ names]. Your unconditional love and unwavering support have shaped me into the person I am today. Thank you for your guidance, sacrifices, and for always believing in me. My heartfelt thanks also go to my wonderful new in-laws, [in-laws’ Names]. You have welcomed me into your family with open arms and treated me as one of your own from the very beginning.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “A special shout-out to my amazing best man, [best man’s name], and our remarkable groomsmen. You guys have been there for me through thick and thin, and I’m grateful for the friendship and memories we’ve created together.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our cherished guests, thank you for gracing us with your presence on this joyous occasion. Your love and support mean the world to us, and we are beyond grateful to have you here as we celebrate our love.”
Thank the staff: “I also want to extend my gratitude to the hardworking staff and vendors who have made this day possible. Your dedication and attention to detail have transformed our vision into reality. Thank you for creating such a magical atmosphere.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to my incredible partner, [bride’s name]. Your beauty, both inside and out, continues to amaze me every day. Your love and undying belief in me have given me strength and courage. I’m blessed to have you by my side.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the extraordinary love and future of [partner’s name] and me. May our journey be filled with love, adventure, and the fulfillment of all our dreams. So let’s all raise a glass!”
Speech Example 6: The Joyful Adventure
Introduction: “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! First and foremost, let me take a moment to express my gratitude for being here today on this wonderful day of celebration. Thank you all for joining us!”
Thank your family: “I want to start by thanking my parents, [parents’ names]. You have been my guiding lights, and my biggest cheerleaders. Thank you for your amazing love and support throughout the years. “I also want to express my deepest appreciation to my amazing new family, [in-laws’ names]. From the moment we met, you embraced me with open hearts and made me feel like a cherished member of the family. Your love, support, and guidance mean the world to me, and I am truly blessed to call you my in-laws as I embark on this new adventure with your daughter.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “To my wonderful best man, [best man’s name], and our fantastic groomsmen, thank you for being my partners in mischief and for standing by my side. Your friendship and laughter have made this journey all the more memorable.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our incredible guests, thank you for gracing us with your presence today. Your love, well wishes, and dance moves are what make this celebration truly special. Let’s continue to create unforgettable memories together.”
Thank the staff: “A special shout-out to the incredible staff who have made this wedding day a seamless experience. From the event coordinators to the DJ who knows just the right tunes to keep the party going, you have all been instrumental in creating an unforgettable night.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to the love of my life, [partner’s name]. From the moment we met, you have filled my days with laughter, love, and countless adventures. Your beauty, both inside and out, leaves me in awe. I’m so lucky to call you my partner.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to the extraordinary love and future of [partner’s name] and me. May our days be filled with laughter, our hearts with love, and our lives with endless joy. Cheers!”
Speech Example 7: The Sentimental Journey
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. Today, as I stand here before all of you, I can’t help but be overwhelmed with emotions. This day represents the culmination of an incredible journey, and I’m honoured to share it with each and every one of you.”
Thank your family: “I want to start by expressing my deepest gratitude to my parents, [parents’ names]. You have given me the most incredible gift of love and support, and I will forever cherish the values you have instilled in me. And I am filled with gratitude for my exceptional new family, [In-Laws’ Names]. Your love, acceptance, and genuine kindness have made me feel like a beloved member of the family from the very beginning.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “To my phenomenal best man, [best man’s name], and our incredible groomsmen, thank you for being my pillars of strength and for standing by my side throughout this entire process. Your friendship means the world to me.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our beloved guests, thank you for gracing us with your presence on this beautiful day. Your presence and well wishes have filled our hearts with immense joy and love. We are blessed to have you in our lives.”
Thank the staff: “A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated staff and vendors who have worked tirelessly to make this wedding a truly magical experience. Your attention to detail and professionalism have exceeded our expectations. We are forever grateful.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to the love of my life, [partner’s name]. Your presence in my life has brought an indescribable happiness that words can’t fully capture. Your love, strength, and unconditional support have made me a better person. I’m beyond fortunate to call you mine.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the extraordinary love and future of [partner’s name] and me. May our journey be filled with endless love, cherished moments, and the realization of all our dreams. Cheers to us!”
Speech Example 8: The Inspirational Touch
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! Today is a day filled with love, joy, and celebration. I stand before you as a grateful man, ready to embark on this incredible journey with my soulmate by my side.”
Thank your family: “I want to start by expressing my deepest appreciation to my parents, [parents’ names]. Your unconditional love, guidance, and sacrifices have shaped me into the person I am today. I am forever grateful for the values you have instilled in me. I am truly grateful to my wonderful new family, [in-laws’ Names]. From the moment I met you, you embraced me with open arms and made me feel like part of the family. Your love, support, and acceptance have touched my heart deeply, and I am honoured to be a part of this loving family.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “To my amazing best man, [best man’s name], and our wonderful groomsmen, thank you for your constant support, laughter, and friendship. You have stood by my side through all of life’s wild adventures, and I’m honored to have you as my chosen family.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our esteemed guests. Your presence here today is a testament to the love and support you have shown us. We are deeply touched by your presence and grateful for the memories we will create together.”
Thank the staff: “A special shout-out to the incredible staff and vendors who have worked to the bone to make this day a literal dream come true. Your attention to detail, professionalism, and dedication have made this celebration truly exceptional. Thank you for going above and beyond.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to the love of my life, [partner’s name]. You have brought light into my world, and I’m grateful for every moment we’ve shared. Your beauty, both inside and out, captivates me. I promise to cherish and protect our love for all my days.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to the incredible love and future of [partner’s name] and me. May our love be a guiding light, leading us to a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and unbreakable bonds. Cheers to us!”
Speech Example 9: The Heartfelt Tribute
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. Today is a day of immense joy and gratitude as we gather here to celebrate the union of two souls deeply in love. Thank you for joining us on this momentous occasion.”
Thank your family: “I want to take a moment to express my deepest appreciation to my parents, [parents’ names]. Your unconditional love, guidance, and support have been the foundation of my life. I’m forever grateful for everything you have done for me. “My heartfelt thanks go to my incredible new in-laws, [in-laws’ names]. Your love, warmth, and genuine acceptance have made me feel like I’ve always been a part of this beautiful family. I am grateful for the memories we’ve shared, and for bringing [partner’s name] into my life.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “To my brilliant best man, [best man’s name], and our outstanding groomsmen, thank you for being my brothers, confidants, and partners in crime. Your friendship has been an invaluable gift, and I’m honored to have you by my side on this special day.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “To all our beloved guests, thank you for gracing us with your presence and for sharing in the love and joy of this moment. Your presence fills our hearts with warmth, and we are so grateful for the love and support you have shown us.”
Thank the staff: “A special thank you to the remarkable staff and vendors who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this day perfect. Your professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail have transformed our vision into reality. We are in awe of your talents.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to my beautiful soulmate, [bride’s name]. You are my rock, my inspiration, and my best friend. Your love has transformed my life in ways I never thought possible. I’m forever grateful for your unwavering support and the endless joy you bring into my world.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to the extraordinary love and future of [bride’s name] and me. May our journey be filled with boundless love, adventure, and beautiful memories. Here’s to a lifetime of love and happiness. Cheers!”
Speech Example 10: The Light-hearted Celebration
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! Today is a day of celebration, laughter, and love. Thank you all for being here as we embark on this incredible journey together. Let’s make some unforgettable memories!”
Thank your family: “I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to my parents, [parents’ names]. You have been my biggest cheerleaders and a constant source of love and support. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without you. To my amazing new family, [in-laws’ names], I want to express my sincere appreciation for welcoming me into your lives. Your love, kindness, and genuine hospitality have made me feel like a beloved member of the family. Thank you for letting me love your incredible daughter.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: “To my phenomenal best man, [best man’s name], and our incredible groomsmen, thank you for adding laughter, adventure, and a whole lot of fun to my life. I’m grateful for the memories we’ve created and the ones we’ll continue to make.”
Express gratitude to the guests: “Thank you to all our wonderful guests for being here and sharing in the joy of this special day. Your presence makes this celebration even more memorable, and we appreciate the love and warmth you bring to our lives.”
Thank the staff: “A special shout-out to the amazing staff and vendors who have bent over backwards to make this wedding day a fantastic experience. From the delicious food to the beautiful decorations, you have made this day truly extraordinary.”
Compliment your partner: “And now, to my incredible partner in crime, [partner’s name]. Your smile lights up my world, and your love fills my heart with happiness. I’m honoured to call you my wife and excited for all the adventures that await us.”
Time for a toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to the love and future of [partner’s name] and me. May our lives be filled with endless laughter, joy, and shared dreams! Now let’s make this the best celebration ever!”
The groom’s speech is your opportunity to thank everyone around you for their involvement and support with your wedding.
Take the time to personalise your speech, infuse it with genuine compliments, and practice, practice, practice! Strike a balance between sincerity and light-heartedness, and let the love and happiness that fills your special day shine through. Remember: keep it upbeat, keep it clean, and deliver it with confidence.
If you’re still unsure where to start, sign up to Bridebook for some top tips, tricks, and inspiration for writing a brilliant groom’s speech.! Best of luck!
He’s your best mate. Your partner in crime. You’re brothers in spirit, if not always in blood. And now, you’re his best man. Congratulations!
The honour of being the best man is a true testament to your friendship and the faith the groom puts in you. The best way to pay him back is to write a best man speech that will have everyone in stitches and teary-eyed at the same time.
Writing a best man’s speech might not be easy for everyone. But there’s no need to panic! Whether you were born for the stage or a little more reserved, we’ve got the best man speech ideas and examples to help you get started. Prepare to craft the perfect speech to make your guests laugh, cry, and reminisce on your best friend’s big day.
The best man speech is a speech made by the best man during the wedding reception. It should be about 5 minutes long and include some anecdotes, jokes, and your favourite memories about the groom. These stories should highlight your friendship, adventures, and any lessons you’ve learned together.
The best man’s speech is usually third in the order of speeches: first is the father of the bride’s speech; second is the groom’s speech; and third is the best man’s speech. It can be delivered after the main meal or between courses. This will give guests a break from the monotony of long speeches and capture the attention of everyone present.
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your best man speech:
Thick as thieves. Engage the guests from the get-go with captivating stories about your time with the groom. It’s the perfect time to share your adventures and describe your escapades surrounded by the people who love your groom the most. It’s important to strike the right balance between sharing your craziest moments and not embarrassing the groom too much on their special day!
Share their story. You likely knew the groom before he met his partner bride. Try sharing some stories of how they met, when he decided to propose, or when he told you they were the one. These special, intimate moments will no doubt make the couple smile and pull at the guest’s heartstrings.
A playful roast. Throw in a few light-hearted (and appropriate) jabs at the groom. Keep it clean; keep it playful. The goal is to make everyone laugh, including the groom himself. Balance the teasing with genuine admiration, support, and love, and you won’t go far wrong.
Toast the happy couple. Raise your glass and lead the crowd in a toast to the couple’s future health and happiness. It’s the perfect opportunity to end your speech on a high note and leave everyone feeling uplifted.
Following a clear structure can help you feel more confident when writing a best man’s speech. Try using this structure to get you started:
Introduction
The first part of your speech should be focused on introducing yourself and explaining your relationship to the groom. You’re his best man, but are you also his childhood best friend, partner in crime, brother, or new brother-in-law?
This is your opportunity to build rapport with your audience and share some light-hearted anecdotes about how you met or your journey so far.
Acknowledge the happy couple
Once you’ve introduced yourself, it’s time to shift your focus to the happy couple. This is the perfect opportunity to highlight how beautiful the bride looks and how much you admire her positive qualities. Express how happy you are for the newlyweds, your excitement for their special day, and explain how the bride has positively influenced the groom’s life.
Stories and anecdotes
The next portion of your speech should be concerned with sharing your favourite stories about the groom. These stories could showcase his character, quirks, and any memorable moments you’ve shared.
Balance your jokes with sincerity, ensuring the stories reflect the groom’s best qualities, highlight your friendship, and don’t embarrass him too much in front of his new family!
Reflect on your friendship
This portion of your speech should talk about how you’ve supported one another through the trials of life. You should discuss how you met, the lessons you’ve learned together, and how much your friendship means to you.
Although these types of speech may not come naturally to all, today is a sentimental day and the perfect opportunity to express your gratitude for their friendship over all these years.
Closing and toast
Now is the time to close your speech and raise a toast to the happy couple. Thank all the guests for attending, express gratitude to the couple’s parents, and end on a heartfelt note before raising your glass to the happy couple. Cheers, you did it!
Best man speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Don’t stress. It’s natural to feel nervous when making a speech in front of a large group. However, keep in mind that you couldn’t ask for a better audience! The guests will have already listened to two speeches, are expecting yours, and are likely to have met you before. Take deep breaths, speak slowly and clearly, and maintain eye contact with the audience. Remember, everyone is there to support you, and the couple will appreciate your efforts regardless.
Respect boundaries. Avoid sensitive or controversial topics that could offend or upset anyone in attendance. Some light-hearted roasting is appropriate, but stay away from any stories that may embarrass the couple or make them uncomfortable. If in doubt, check with the groom what stories he’s happy for you to use and disclose beforehand. This way, you can make sure he’s comfortable with the stories you’ll share while keeping your speech’s content a secret.
Practice makes perfect. As with anything – practice makes perfect! Rehearse your speech multiple times before the big day. Try practising in front of a mirror, to trusted friends, or even record yourself making the speech to watch back. This will help you feel more comfortable, ensure a smooth delivery, and help you remember the key points you want to cover. If you’re still feeling anxious, check out our speech delivery skills to help you prepare for your best man’s speech.
Toasting etiquette. This may be one of the first times you’re instigating a toast, so it’s important to have proper toasting etiquette. When raising a toast, ensure your glass is filled with the drink of your choice beforehand. This is traditionally champagne. However, prosecco or a non-alcoholic fizzy drink is also acceptable. Make eye contact with the couple and raise your glass towards them. Encourage others to join in by signalling or making a simple gesture.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 10 examples of great best man wedding speech ideas, from the short and simple, to the funny and personal!
A lot of traditional best man speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to the groom’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Speech Example 1: Best Friend’s Journey
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [your name], and I have the honor of standing here as [groom’s name]’s best man. We’ve been through thick and thin together, from childhood adventures to navigating the ups and downs of adulthood.”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But today is all about celebrating the love between [groom’s name] and [partner’s name]. I’ve never seen [groom’s name] happier than when he met [partner’s name]. Their love is truly special, and I couldn’t be happier for them.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Now, let me share a couple of stories about [groom’s name]. I remember when we were kids, [groom’s name] always had an uncanny ability to get into mischief. Whether it was pranks or daring adventures, we were partners in crime. And that mischievous spirit has never left him.”
Reflect on your friendship: “As we grew older, our friendship deepened. [Groom’s name] has always been there for me, offering a helping hand and a listening ear. We’ve supported each other through heartbreaks, career challenges, and everything in between. [Groom’s name], I am truly grateful to have you as my best friend.”
Closing and toast: “In closing, I want to raise a toast to [couple’s names]. May your journey together be filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 2: The Brother’s Tribute
Introduction: “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! As [groom’s name]’s brother and best man, I have the privilege of sharing some stories about the man of the hour. Growing up together, I’ve witnessed his transformation from a mischievous little brother to the amazing man he is today.”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But today is not just about [groom’s name]. It’s about celebrating the love he has found with [partner’s name]. [Partner’s name], thank you for bringing so much happiness into [groom’s name]’s life. You are truly his perfect match, and we are thrilled to have you as part of our family.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Now, let’s get to the fun part. I could tell countless stories about [groom’s name], but let me share a classic one. Remember that time when we tried to build a treehouse and ended up getting stuck? It was a true test of our problem-solving skills, and [groom’s name] never fails to surprise me with his resourcefulness.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Our bond as brothers goes beyond shared memories and adventures. [Groom’s name] has been my rock, my confidant, and my partner in crime. We’ve faced triumphs and trials together, and I am grateful for his unwavering support and friendship.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your love be as strong as the bond between brothers, and may your journey be filled with love, joy, and endless happiness. Here’s to a lifetime of love and laughter. Cheers!”
Speech Example 3: The Childhood Shenanigans
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I stand before you as [groom’s name]’s best man, and it is an honor to share some stories about our lifelong friendship. From playground adventures to adulthood, we’ve been partners in crime every step of the way.”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But tonight, we gather to celebrate [groom’s name]’s love story with [partner’s name]. Seeing the way they light up each other’s lives is truly inspiring. [Partner’s name], thank you for loving [groom’s name] unconditionally and bringing so much joy into his life.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Let me take you back to our childhood when [groom’s name] had this uncanny ability to charm everyone around him. I remember one time we got into a little trouble at school, and [groom’s name] managed to talk our way out of it with his smooth talking and infectious smile.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Our friendship has been a constant source of support, laughter, and growth. We’ve weathered storms and celebrated milestones together. [Groom’s name], thank you for always being there for me, and I’m honored to stand by your side on this special day.”
Closing and toast: “Let us raise our glasses to [couples’ name]. May your journey together be filled with laughter, adventure, and an abundance of love. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 4: The Unbreakable Bond
Introduction: “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! As [groom’s name]’s best man, it is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today. We’ve been through countless adventures, embarrassing moments, and unforgettable experiences that have solidified our bond.”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But today, we gather to celebrate the love between [couples’ names]. Their love is truly remarkable, and it’s an honor to witness the joy they bring to each other’s lives. [Partner’s name], thank you for loving [groom’s name] with all your heart.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Let me share a story that perfectly encapsulates [groom’s name]’s adventurous spirit. We once decided to go skydiving, and as the plane ascended, [groom’s name] turned to me and said, ‘What’s the worst that could happen?’ Needless to say, we survived, but it’s moments like these that remind me of his fearlessness.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Our friendship is built on trust, laughter, and shared experiences. Through thick and thin, we’ve been each other’s support system, offering a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. [Groom’s name], I am grateful to have you as a best friend.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your love be as unbreakable as the bond between best friends. May your journey be filled with joy, laughter, and endless adventures. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 5: The Lifelong Journey
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I am honored to stand here as [groom’s name]’s best man and share some heartfelt words about our incredible journey together. From the moment we met, our friendship has been filled with laughter, support, and unforgettable moments.”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But tonight, we gather not only to celebrate our friendship but also to celebrate the love between [couples’ names]. Their love story is a testament to the power of true love and compatibility. [Partner’s name], thank you for bringing so much happiness into [groom’s name]’s life.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Let me take you back to a hilarious memory that perfectly captures [Groom’s Name]’s wit and charm. We were on a road trip, and when we got lost, [Groom’s Name] convinced us that he had a perfect sense of direction, only to end up at the wrong destination. We laughed it off and turned it into an adventure.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Our friendship has stood the test of time, and I couldn’t be more grateful. [groom’s name] has been there for me during my highest highs and lowest lows. We’ve shared dreams, goals, and late-night conversations that have shaped who we are today.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your journey together be filled with love, happiness, and endless adventures. As you embark on this new chapter, know that you have a friend for life in each other. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 6: The Dynamic Duo
Introduction: “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! As [groom’s name]’s best man, it’s an absolute pleasure to share some stories about our unforgettable adventures and the unbreakable bond we share.”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But tonight, we’re not only celebrating [groom’s name]’s journey but also the love between him and [partner’s name]. [Partner’s name], thank you for accepting [groom’s name] and becoming an integral part of our dynamic duo.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Let me share a story that perfectly captures our mischievous side. We once decided to crash a karaoke night, and let’s just say our rendition of a classic hit cleared the room in record time. We may not be the next American Idol, but we sure know how to have a good time.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Throughout the years, [groom’s name] has been more than a friend to me – he’s been a brother. We’ve supported each other through thick and thin, celebrated victories, and picked each other up during the tough times. [Groom’s name], thank you for always having my back.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your journey together be filled with laughter, love, and endless adventures. May you continue to be the dynamic duo that lights up every room you enter. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 7: The Epic Bromance
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I stand before you as [groom’s name]’s best man and partner-in-crime. Our bromance has weathered the test of time, and today, I have the honor of sharing some memorable moments with all of you.”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But tonight, we’re not just celebrating our epic bromance. We’re here to celebrate the love between [couples’ names]. [Partner’s name], thank you for bringing out the best in [groom’s name] and being the one who truly completes him.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Now, let me take you back to a legendary moment that embodies our bromance. We once decided to participate in a hot chili eating contest, thinking we were invincible. Let’s just say the aftermath was not pretty, but it’s a story we laugh about to this day.”
Reflect on your friendship: “[Groom’s name] has been more than a best friend; he’s been a brother to me. We’ve laughed, cried, and conquered challenges together. His unwavering support and loyalty have been a constant source of inspiration in my life.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your journey together be filled with love, adventure, and the same epic bromance you’ve shared with each other. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and unforgettable moments. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech 8: Ride or Die
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! As [groom’s name]’s best man, I have the pleasure of sharing some stories about our incredible bond. We’ve been through it all together, and today, I want to celebrate that bond and the love between [couples’ names].”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But first, let’s raise a toast to the lovebirds. [Partner’s name], thank you for not only capturing [groom’s name]’s heart but also for accepting us, his loyal friends, into your life. Your love for each other is inspiring, and we couldn’t be happier for you.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Let me take you back to a wild adventure that epitomises our ride-or-die mentality. We once decided to embark on a spontaneous road trip with no destination in mind. It may not have been the most well-planned journey, but the memories we created along the way are priceless.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Our friendship is built on trust, loyalty, and a shared love for spontaneity. [Groom’s name] has always been the one person I can count on, no matter the circumstances. He’s been there through the highs and lows, reminding me that we’re in this together.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your journey together be filled with unwavering love, unforgettable adventures, and the same ride-or-die friendship that has brought us all here today. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech 9: The Comedy Duo
Introduction: “Ladies and gentlemen, good evening! As [groom’s name]’s best man, I have the pleasure of sharing some hilarious moments that capture the essence of our friendship. Laughter has been the foundation of our bond, and tonight, I want to celebrate that laughter and the love between [couples’ names].”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But before we dive into the comedy, let’s take a moment to celebrate the lovebirds. [Partner’s name], thank you for embracing [groom’s name]’s sense of humor and bringing even more laughter into his life. Your love story is like a romantic comedy we all want to watch.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Let me transport you to a moment of pure comedy gold. We once decided to take an impromptu dance class, thinking we were the next Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Let’s just say we were far from graceful, but the laughter we shared was priceless.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Our friendship has been a constant source of fun and joy. [Groom’s name] has the incredible ability to make any situation hilarious, and his infectious laughter is contagious. I’m grateful for the countless memories we’ve created together.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your journey together be filled with endless laughter and joyful moments. May you continue to be each other’s comedic partners for life. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 10: The Supportive Sidekick
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! As [groom’s name]’s best man, it is an absolute honor to be by his side on this special day. We’ve been each other’s support system, cheerleaders, and partners in crime, and today, I want to celebrate our friendship and the love between [couples’ names].”
Acknowledge the happy couple: “But first, let us raise a toast to the happy couple. [Partner’s name], thank you for being the love of [groom’s name]’s life and for being the perfect match for him. Your unwavering support and belief in him have made him a better person.”
Stories and anecdotes: “Let me take you back to a moment when [groom’s name] showed incredible courage and determination. We decided to go skydiving together, and as the plane door opened at 10,000 feet, I could see the mix of excitement and nervousness on [groom’s name]’s face. But he took a deep breath, stepped out into the open sky, and embraced the exhilarating freefall. It was a testament to his courage and willingness to embrace new experiences.”
Reflect on your friendship: “Our friendship has stood the test of time and distance. [Groom’s name] has been my rock, always there to lend a listening ear, offer advice, and provide unwavering support. He’s taught me the value of friendship and loyalty.”
Closing and toast: “To [couples’ names], may your journey together be filled with love, support, and countless shared adventures. May you continue to be each other’s biggest supporters and find strength in your love. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
The best man speech is the perfect opportunity to share stories of your adventures, honour the groom on his big day, and celebrate the newlyweds’ love.
To write a killer speech, throw in a few (respectful) jokes, compliment the groom’s partner, and keep an upbeat pace. These tips will help you strike a balance between comedy and sincerity and ensure that you leave a lasting impression on their wedding day.
Leave plenty of time to write your speech and look up plenty of best man speech examples. Whether you’re the groom’s brother, friend, or new brother-in-law, these top 10 best man speech examples are sure to inspire your writing.
If you’re still feeling stuck, sign up to Bridebook for some top tips, tricks, and inspiration for writing a brilliant Best Man’s speech. Best of luck!
The father of the bride’s speech is the top Daddy duty on your little girl’s big day. It’s a much-anticipated, heartfelt, and tear-jerking speech filled with joy and bittersweet nostalgia.
But writing a great father of the bride speech can be tricky. How do you strike the right balance between wit and sentimentality? How do you keep your audience engaged after a long wedding service? How do you properly capture your love, pride, and hope for their future in one 5-7 minute speech? Don’t stress. We’ve got you covered.
In this post, we’ve captured everything you need to know about writing a heartfelt and funny wedding speech. We break down what you should include, the structure of the wedding speech, a few top tips, and those 10 all-important examples of brilliant father of the bride speeches.
A father of the bride speech is the speech made by the bride’s father during the wedding reception. It should be 5-7 minutes long and end with a heartfelt toast to the new couple.
The father’s wedding speech is a beautiful mix of happy memories, heartfelt advice, and funny anecdotes about the bride. Typically the father of the bride speech welcomes your new son-or daughter-in-law to the family, is an opportunity for a father to reflect on his relationship with his daughter, and offers some words of wisdom to the happy couple as they start this new journey together.
What should you include in a father of the bride speech?
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your father of the bride speech:
All about the bride. Talk about how wonderful your daughter is. Tell her guests about your love for her, her amazing accomplishments, and fabulous qualities. Be sure to let them know she got it all from you!
Welcome the bride’s partner. This is the perfect opportunity to welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law to the family. Share positive thoughts about them, their character, and your hopes for their future together.
Anecdotes and memories. Remember when your daughter came home a little too merry from her first grown-up party? Or the time she went on holiday and didn’t take any knickers? This is the perfect opportunity to share funny, endearing, or slightly embarrassing memories with your daughter. But remember, the point isn’t to make a joke of her on her special day. Any stories you pick should ultimately highlight the special bond you share.
Some pearls of wisdom and advice. Offer some sage words of wisdom to the newlyweds. Draw from your life experience and share insights about love, marriage, and building a strong, lasting relationship.
When structuring your father of the bride speech, following a clear and organised framework can be helpful. Try using this structure to get you started:
Introduction
The first part of your speech should focus on introducing yourself and thanking everyone for attending. Your role is to ensure that everyone feels welcome and appreciated at the reception.
Take a moment to acknowledge and express gratitude to those who have travelled to attend and those who have supported the wedding, whether morally or financially.
The thank yous
You should then move on to thank those who have helped organise the wedding. Give a shout-out to the bridesmaids, the ushers, and other friends and family who have been involved.
It’s also a nice idea to thank the wedding planner (if they used one) and the staff working on the wedding day. They’re as much a part of making the big day happen as everyone else.
This is also a good opportunity to remember any family members who could not attend or are no longer with you. Keep it upbeat, but it’s a nice way to remember those you’ve lost who were a big part of your daughter’s upbringing.
The bride
Now is the time to discuss your special relationship with your daughter. It’s the perfect chance to talk about her childhood, accomplishments, and the little quirks that make her so special. Share any funny stories or special adventures you’ve shared. These anecdotes will add a touch of nostalgia and humor to your speech, creating a heartfelt connection with the audience.
End this portion of the speech with how proud you are of the person she’s become. Talk about her loving relationship with her new partner, and don’t forget to sprinkle in a genuine compliment about how stunning she looks on her wedding day – a moment that will surely make her smile even brighter.
The happy couple
You should then welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law and their parents to your family.
It’s a great time to talk about the groom and your experiences with them. You can reminisce about the first time you met, share funny moments you’ve shared together, or highlight some of their endearing traits. By including the groom in your speech, you’re showing your support and building a bridge of connection between families.
Some words of wisdom
You should then move on to sharing some pearls of wisdom with the newlyweds.
You can draw from your experiences and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. You can talk about love, commitment, their future, and building a strong family.
If it’s more appropriate, some carefully chosen quotes about love and marriage or a nice reading are also great options. Remember to deliver your words with clarity and calmness, whatever path you choose. This is the penultimate part of your speech; you want to round it off well.
The toast
You should then invite everyone to join you in a toast to the happy couple. Raise your glass, and present the couple with their new shared name. Congratulations, you did it!
Father of the bride speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Use this father of the bride speech template to guide your writing
Top tips for delivering a brilliant father of the bride speech
Know where you fit into the overall wedding speech order. The father of the bride traditionally gives the first speech at the wedding reception. That means you go before the groom’s speech and are the first family member to address the guest. How you deliver your speech will set the tone for the rest of the reception, so keep it upbeat, funny, and light-hearted.
Don’t panic! Pre-speech jitters are natural. But remember, this is one of the best audiences you could be put in front of. Everyone there knows your daughter or her new partner, and everyone is there to celebrate and have a good time. Embrace the excitement and joy of the moment, and let that energy carry you through your speech.
Let your own personality shine through. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the audience on a personal level using charm and wit. Inject your speech with your personal touch, sharing heartfelt stories, cherished memories, and insights only you can provide. Embrace your authentic self and let your love for your daughter be the guiding light in your words.
Include a few jokes. Humor can lighten the mood, enhance feelings of joy, and engage the audience. Keep the jokes tasteful and relevant to the occasion. Share some light-hearted anecdotes or playful teasing about the bride or groom, keeping it in good spirits. It’s about making the audience smile and creating connections on this special day.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 10 examples of great father of the bride speech ideas, from the simple and sentimental to the light-hearted and humorous. And remember that these are just examples. You can use them as templates for your own speech, but it’s important to speak from the heart, and add your own personal touch and unique family anecdotes.
A lot of traditional father of the bride speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to your daughter’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Speech Example 1: The Classic Touch
Introduction: “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I am [your name], the proud father of the bride. On behalf of my partner, [partner’s name], and our entire family, I want to extend a warm welcome and express our deepest gratitude for joining us on this joyous occasion.”
The thank yous: “We would like to take a moment to thank all of you who have travelled from near and far to be here today. Your presence means the world to us. We are also incredibly grateful to our friends and family who have contributed their time, support, and resources to make this day possible.”
The bride: “As I stand here today, I can’t help but reflect on the beautiful journey my daughter, [bride’s name], has taken. From the first time she wrapped her tiny fingers around mine to the accomplished woman she has become, it has been an honor to witness her growth. [Bride’s name], you radiate love and happiness, and I’m so proud to call you my daughter.”
The happy couple: “Now, let me welcome our new son-in-law, [groom’s name], and his wonderful parents [parents’ names]. From the moment we met [groom’s name], we knew he was the perfect match for [daughter’s name]. His kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering love for her have brought us immeasurable joy. We are thrilled to officially welcome him into our family.”
Some words of wisdom: “As you begin this new chapter together, my wish for you is to always cherish and respect one another. Remember to communicate openly, be each other’s biggest cheerleaders, and embrace the journey that lies ahead. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day.”
The toast: “Please join me in raising a glass to [couple’s names]. May your lives be filled with an abundance of love, laughter, and countless beautiful memories. To the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 2: The Light-hearted Twist
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [your name], the proud father of the bride. Before we dive into the heartfelt moments, let’s take a moment to appreciate the fact that my jokes will be the second-best thing tonight. The first, of course, being my daughter, [bride’s name]!”
The thank yous: “I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for gracing us with your presence today. We truly appreciate your love and support. A special thank you goes to our wedding planner, [planner’s name], for transforming our vision into reality, and to the incredible staff who have worked tirelessly to make this day unforgettable.”
The bride: “[Bride’s name], my sweet daughter, it feels like just yesterday you were teaching me how to change nappies. Today, I stand here in awe of the remarkable woman you’ve become. Your determination, kindness, and ability to put up with my terrible jokes are truly admirable. You look absolutely stunning, and I couldn’t be prouder of you.”
The happy couple: “Now, let’s welcome the man who has stolen [bride’s name] heart and made her laugh louder than I ever could…[groom’s name]! From the first time we met, I knew [groom’s name] was the one for our girl. His genuine heart, contagious smile, and endless dad joke repertoire instantly won me over. [Groom’s name], welcome to our more than slightly eccentric family!”
Some words of wisdom: “As you embark on this incredible journey together, remember that laughter is the secret ingredient to a happy marriage. Life will throw challenges your way, but facing them with humor and a dash of silliness will make them more bearable. Keep making each other laugh, and your love will always shine bright.”
The toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we celebrate the union of [couples’ names]. May your lives be filled with never-ending laughter, adventure, and joy. To the bride and groom!”
Speech Example 3: The Sentimental Tribute
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. I’m [your name], the father of the bride. Today, we gather to celebrate love, family, and the beautiful journey that lies ahead. Thank you all for joining us on this momentous occasion.”
The thank yous: “Before we proceed, I want to express our heartfelt appreciation to each of you for being here today. Your love, support, and presence mean the world to us. We are also immensely grateful to the incredible team of suppliers who have worked tirelessly to create this magical day.”
The bride: “As I look at my radiant daughter, [bride’s name], I am reminded of all the cherished memories we have shared. From tea parties to late-night heart-to-heart conversations, she has filled my life with immeasurable joy. Samantha, you are not only a beautiful bride but also a remarkable woman, and I am so proud to be your father.”
The happy couple: “Now, let’s welcome [groom’s name], the man who has captured [bride’s name]’s heart. From the moment I met [groom’s name], I knew he was someone truly special. His unwavering love, loyalty, and devotion to [bride’s name] are evident in every interaction. [Groom’s name], today, we gain a son, and I couldn’t be happier.”
Some words of wisdom: “As you begin this incredible journey together, my advice to you is to always choose love. Cherish one another, celebrate your shared dreams, and support each other through life’s ups and downs. May your love continue to grow and flourish, and may your marriage be filled with endless happiness.”
The toast: “Please raise your glasses as we toast to the happiness and love of [couples’ names]. May your hearts always beat as one, and may your lives be filled with infinite love, laughter, and beautiful memories. To the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 4: The Quirky Antics
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I’m [your name], and I have the incredible honor of being the father of the bride. I must warn you, though, my sense of humor can be a bit questionable. So, brace yourselves for a few dad jokes along the way!”
The thank yous: “I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for joining us today. Your presence here is a testament to the love and support our families and friends have showered upon us. We also extend our appreciation to the catering staff for keeping our bellies full and the dance floor energetic!”
The bride: “My beautiful daughter, [bride’s name], has always been full of surprises. From her knack for disappearing in supermarkets to her endless passion for art, she has brought laughter and adventure into our lives. [Bride’s name], you are a brilliant artist and an extraordinary woman. Seeing you as a radiant bride today fills my heart with overwhelming pride.”
The happy couple: “Let’s give a warm welcome to [bride’s name] partner in crime, [groom’s name], and his amazing parents, [parents’ names]. [Groom’s name], I have watched you and [bride’s name] create countless memories together – some hilarious, others heartwarming. Your shared sense of humor and love for adventure make you a perfect match. Welcome to our wonderfully wacky family!”
Some words of wisdom: “As you embark on this exciting journey of married life, my advice is to never stop embracing your inner child. Laugh together, play pranks, and find joy in the little things. May your marriage be filled with endless laughter, happiness, and a dash of mischief.”
The toast: “Please raise your glasses high as we toast to the incredible bond of [couples’ names]. May your lives be blessed with a lifetime of laughter, love, and whimsical adventures. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 5: The Poetic Musings
Introduction: “Greetings, dear friends and family. I am James, the proud father of the bride, and it is an absolute delight to see you all gathered here today to celebrate the love between our families.”
The thank yous: “Before we proceed, I want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has played a part in making this day truly magical. From our extended family to the dedicated team of suppliers, your contributions have made this celebration possible.”
The bride: “As I stand here, my heart swells with love and admiration for my daughter, [bride’s name]. From the day she was born, I knew she was destined for greatness. [Bride’s name], you have blossomed into a strong, compassionate woman, and witnessing your growth has been the greatest privilege of my life.”
The happy couple: “Let us warmly welcome [bride’s name] partner in life, [groom’s name], and his wonderful parents, [parents’ names]. [Groom’s name], from the moment we met, your kind heart and unwavering devotion to [bride’s name] have touched our souls. We are overjoyed to welcome you into our family with open arms.”
Some words of wisdom: “As you embark on this remarkable journey together, my dear [couples’ names], I offer you this advice: nurture your love like a garden. Plant the seeds of trust, water it with patience, and watch it bloom into a beautiful oasis of love and happiness.”
The toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, let us raise our glasses in celebration of [couples’ names]. May your love be as timeless as the stars, as pure as a morning sunrise, and as enduring as the ocean waves. To the happily married couple!”
Speech Example 6: The Thoughtful Reflection
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. I am [your name], the father of the bride, and it warms my heart to see all of your smiling faces as we gather here to celebrate love and family.”
The thank yous: “Before we continue, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to each and every one of you for joining us today. Your presence is a true testament to the love and support our families have received throughout the years.”
The bride: “As I look at my daughter, [bride’s name], standing before me today, I am reminded of the beautiful journey we have shared. From her first steps to her achievements as a confident, compassionate woman, every moment has been a blessing. [Bride’s name], you are the embodiment of grace and strength, and I am incredibly proud to be your father.”
The happy couple: “Please join me in welcoming [groom’s name], the man who has captured [bride’s name] heart and become an integral part of our family. [Groom’s name], your love for [bride’s name] shines through in everything you do. Your kindness, intelligence, and unwavering support have touched us deeply. Welcome to our family, [groom’s name].”
Some words of wisdom: “As you begin this new chapter together, I offer you this advice: never underestimate the power of small acts of kindness. Embrace empathy, forgiveness, and patience in your journey. Remember that a single act of love can have a ripple effect, changing lives and bringing light to the world.”
The toast: “Let us raise our glasses high as we toast to the love, commitment, and future happiness of [couples’ names]. May your hearts always be filled with love, and may your path be blessed with joy, understanding, and a lifetime of shared dreams. To the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 7: The Personal Reflection
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. I am [your name], the father of the bride, and it fills my heart with joy to see all of you gathered here today to celebrate this remarkable moment.”
The thank yous: “Before we continue, I want to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for being here. Your presence is a testament to the love and support we have received throughout this journey.”
The bride: “My daughter, [bride’s name], has always been a ray of sunshine in our lives. From her infectious laughter to her unwavering determination, she has brought immense happiness into our family. [Bride’s name], your strength, resilience, and beautiful spirit make me immensely proud to call you my daughter.”
The happy couple: “Let us warmly welcome [groom’s name], the man who has swept [bride]s name] off her feet and into a world of love and adventure. [Groom’s name], from the first moment I saw the sparkle in [bride’s name]’s eyes whenever she was with you, I knew you were the one. Your kindness, integrity, and love for [bride’s name] are truly extraordinary.”
Some words of wisdom: “As you embark on this journey together, my wish for you is to never lose sight of the importance of cherishing one another. Treasure every moment, celebrate your successes, and support each other through life’s challenges. May your love be the guiding light that illuminates your path.”
The toast: “Please raise your glasses as we toast to [couples’ names], two souls destined to be together. May your love continue to grow and flourish, and may your journey be filled with unending joy, love, and shared dreams. To the happily married couple!”
Speech Example 8: The Humorous One
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! I’m [your name], the proud father of the bride, and I must say, it’s an incredible honor to stand before you all today. Now, don’t worry – I promise to keep my speech sweet and simple, and certainly shorter than the time it takes for my daughter to get ready!”
The thank yous: “Before we proceed with the fun, let’s take a moment to express our gratitude. Thank you all for joining us on this special day. Your presence means the world to us, and we appreciate the love and support you’ve shown our family.”
The bride: “Today, I have the pleasure of talking about my daughter, [bride’s name]. From her mischievous pranks as a child to her caring and determined nature as an adult, she has always kept us on our toes. [Bride’s name], your free spirit and zest for life inspire me every day. You look lovely and I couldn’t be prouder.
The happy couple: “Now, let’s give a warm welcome to [bride’s name]’s partner in crime, [groom’s name], and his amazing parents, [parents’ names]. Ethan, from the first time I met you, I knew you were the perfect match for our adventurous girl. Your shared love for hiking, pizza, and terrible puns solidified my belief in true love. Welcome to our quirky family!”
Some words of wisdom: “As you embark on this crazy rollercoaster called marriage, remember to embrace the silly moments, laugh at each other’s quirks, and never take yourselves too seriously. May your marriage be filled with laughter, inside jokes, and an endless supply of funny GIFs.”
The toast: “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to the love, laughter, and happily ever after of [couples’ names]. May your lives be a series of amusing anecdotes and unforgettable adventures. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 9: The Heartfelt Journey
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I am [your name], the proud father of the bride, and it fills my heart with joy to welcome you all here today as we celebrate the love between [couples’ names].”
The thank yous: “Before we continue, I want to express our deepest gratitude to all of you for being a part of this joyous occasion. Your presence and support mean the world to us, and we are grateful for the love that surrounds our families.”
The bride: “Today, I stand before you with overwhelming pride as I talk about my daughter, [bride’s name]. From her first steps to her academic achievements, she has always impressed us with her determination and compassion. [Bride’s name], you are an extraordinary woman, and seeing you as a beautiful bride today fills my heart with immense joy.”
The happy couple: “Let us warmly welcome [groom’s name] into our family. From the moment I met him, I knew he was the perfect match for [bride’s name]. His intelligence, kindness, and unwavering support have made our daughter’s life even more radiant. [Groom’s name], thank you for loving [bride’s name] and bringing such happiness into her life.”
Some words of wisdom: “As you begin this incredible journey together, remember that a strong marriage is built on love, trust, and communication. Cherish and respect one another, be each other’s biggest supporters, and face the challenges of life as a team. May your love grow deeper and stronger with each passing day.”
The toast: “Please raise your glasses high as we toast to the happiness and love of [couples’ names]. May your days be filled with endless love, laughter, and shared dreams. To the newlyweds!”
Speech Example 10: The Genuine Connection
Introduction: “Ladies and gentlemen, good evening. I am [your name], the proud father of the bride, and I want to thank you all for joining us today to celebrate the love between [couples’ names]. Your presence here is deeply appreciated.”
The thank yous: “Before we continue, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this beautiful day. From the family and friends who have travelled far to be here to the dedicated wedding team who have made everything run smoothly, thank you all.”
The bride: “As I stand here today, reminiscing about the beautiful moments we’ve shared, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride for my daughter, [bride’s name]. From her first steps to her accomplishments as a talented writer, [bride’s name] has always radiated warmth, creativity, and love. [Bride’s name], you are a shining light in our lives, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
The happy couple: “Let’s take a moment to welcome [groom’s name] into our family. From the first time I met him, I knew he was a kind-hearted, genuine person. His love for [bride’s name] is evident in every glance, every smile they share. [Bride’s name], thank you for bringing happiness and love into [bride’s name]’s life. We are over the moon to have you as part of our family.”
Some words of wisdom: “As you embark on this incredible journey together, my wish for you is to always cherish the small moments. Life is made up of a million tiny fragments, and it’s in those fragments that love thrives. Embrace each other’s quirks, be each other’s confidants, and build a home filled with love, laughter, and endless memories.”
The toast: “Let us raise our glasses high to celebrate the love and future of [couples’ names]. May your lives be filled with happiness, love, and countless shared adventures. Cheers to the newlyweds!”
Start planning your father of the bride speech today!
The father of the bride speech is one of the most anticipated parts of the wedding reception. It’s your chance to tell the world how amazing your little girl is and how proud you are of her.
Make sure you leave plenty of time to plan your wedding speech. This way, you know you’ll be happy with the content and have plenty of time to practice. Follow a time-honoured structure, throw in a few jokes, and let your personality shine through. You’ve got this!
If you’re still feeling nervous, we can support you in writing a brilliant father of the bride speech. Whether you want to keep it simple or make it funny and heartfelt, we have plenty of wedding speech ideas to give you inspiration. Sign up to Bridebook today and write a cracking speech!
